7 scrumptious afternoon teas you can reach by public transport
Our friends at Good Journey are sharing their top 7 scrumptious afternoon teas you can reach by public transport, just in time for those spring and summer day trips. Have a read and be sure to check out Good Journey’s website for all the details you need to plan your next car-free adventure.
Striking views, a rich history and signature bakes – these seven spots for afternoon tea don’t disappoint. The cherry on the cake is that you don’t need a car to get there. So, what are we waiting for? Let’s tuck in!
RHS Harlow Carr, Yorkshire
Stroll through the wildflower meadows, alpine areas, and woodland paths. Then enjoy a delicious afternoon tea at a Yorkshire favourite: Betty’s tea room. This one offers the much-loved Betty’s range of homemade cakes, treats and teas with panoramic views of the gardens.
Get the train to Harrogate then catch a bus for 30% off entry to the gardens.
De La Warr Pavilion, East Sussex
The cafe in this striking Modernist gallery offers views of the sparkling sea, homemade meals and delicious cakes with local ingredients. No wonder, then, that it was chosen as one of the UK’s top gallery cafes by National Geographic.
It’s easy to reach De La Warr Pavilion car-free as it’s just a short stroll from Bexhill train station. The art gallery is free to wander round.
Photo: jelleke-vanooteghem-unsplash-scaled
Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire
Mini scones and savoury tartlets. Gin-cured salmon and apple crumble macarons. These are just some of the treats on offer as part of afternoon tea at Waddesdon Manor. You will dine in what used to be the kitchen and servants’ hall. See if you can spot some of the original fixtures and fittings, including gas lights and a serving hatch.
Take the train to Aylesbury then cycle, walk or catch the bus to the manor. Plan your journey to Waddesdon Manor.
Cliveden House, Berkshire
Cliveden House has created an afternoon tea inspired by the history of the property. The menu features champagne, a French chocolate cake and a 24-carat gold pickled egg.
It takes a little planning to reach the 80-acre estate car-free, but it’s easy to plan your journey to Cliveden House.
Photo: k8-unsplash
Fitzbillies, Cambridge
Fitzbillies serve up their homemade scones, tea cakes and macarons for afternoon tea every day at their Bridge Street café, which opened in 1920. The bakery has survived the Second World War, recession and a huge fire, and is still going strong. Don’t forget to buy one of their famous Chelsea buns to try, too.
Fitzbillies is a 25-minute walk from Cambridge train station.
Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Book for afternoon tea at Edinburgh Castle and get admission to the castle thrown in as well. The building has been used as a military fortress, a royal residence and a prison. It now has an elegant tea room! You can choose to enjoy the sweet and savoury dishes with a glass of Prosecco or the castle’s own gin.
Catch the train to Edinburgh and then explore the city car-free.
Harewood House, Yorkshire
Harewood House, in the heart of Yorkshire, has over 100 acres of gardens to explore and boasts an extensive art collection. Book for an afternoon tea of sandwiches, cakes and scones and get free entry to the house and grounds.
Catch the train to Leeds then simply add a return bus ticket to Harewood to your train ticket with PlusBus. Plan your journey to Harewood House.
Photo: sheri-silver-unsplash
About Good Journey
Good Journey champions car-free leisure travel. We believe everyone should have access to culture, leisure and nature, without needing a car. We want every visitor attraction in the UK to welcome people by train, bus, bike and foot. We feature nearly 500 attractions you can visit car-free and enjoy up to 50% off entry. Discover more places to enjoy tea and cakes car free with Good Journey.
